The Tree of Jesse, Geertgen tot Sint Jans (circle of), c. 1500

Pictured here symbolically is Christ’s family tree. It grows out of the sleeping figure of Jesse, forefather of a line of kings that included, according to tradition, Salomon, David and Jesus.The branches are filled with the kings of Israel, among them King David with his harp. At top, the Virgin is enthroned with the Christ Child on her lap.